Nothing great in the price range? 2 sizes of Multistrada, Buell Ulysses, Cagiva Gran Canyon, Triumph Tiger and Scrambler- some great bikes right there.

The KLR meets most wants, but doesn't "wind me up". Same for the Versys and V Strom. This is not a comment on the quality/merits of any of these. They are all very good bikes that can be had for
Sounds like 8 or 9 great choices to me. Why would I need/want to pay more? Unless your favorite is not among those I guess, but I see almost too many choices, not too few.

BryanCO - I'm starting to zero in on the Multistrada and am pleased to hear yours has been trouble free. If you don't mind - what about the 1000's makes you prefer it over the 620's? What's your tire choice for gravel? Any other mod's/setups that add to off pavement performance? Any specific years/models to avoid or seek?